Someone or something is constantly introducing a new AI bot every day, often multiple times, in an attempt to leverage the global tech boom triggered by the emergence of ChatGPT last year. Aravind Srinivas, the CEO of Perplexity AI, is quick to point out that chatbots are becoming outdated and that OpenAI’s leading AI model is no longer essential in today’s world.
Srinivas conveyed to Decrypt, “We want to emphasize to our end users that we are not just another chatbot jumping on the ChatGPT bandwagon. At Perplexity, we position ourselves as an answer website, dedicated to aiding in the discovery of solutions to any query.”
The key differentiator of Perplexity AI, as per Srinivas, lies in its ability to provide comprehensive responses along with references to verified information, which is the foundation of the answer engine’s identity.
Srinivas highlighted that the educational background of the company’s president significantly influenced the development of Perplexity. In academic settings, every assertion in a paper must be substantiated with evidence.
“What if a product is designed to be firmly grounded in factual information rather than fabricating narratives and presenting arbitrary content?” This question resonated with us deeply, prompting introspection.
Recently, Perplexity announced securing $74 million in Series B funding, with IVP leading the investment round. This financial boost aims to propel Perplexity towards enhancing the AI-driven research experience. Srinivas mentioned that the funds will be utilized to expand Perplexity’s operations to cater to the increasing user base the platform has garnered since its launch two years ago.
Srinivas noted the widespread enthusiasm surrounding ChatGPT but cautioned against the notion that everything needs to be transformed into a chatbot, as it may not necessarily offer the most effective search user interface.
While Perplexity is designed to deliver follow-up responses to inquiries, Srinivas envisions advancing AI to a level where follow-up questions become unnecessary, indicating a deep understanding of the user’s intent right from the initial interaction.
Under the guidance of Srinivas, Denis Yarats, and Andy Konwinski, a team comprising engineers and designers from OpenAI, Meta, Quora, and Databricks unveiled Perplexity AI in August 2022.
Noteworthy participants in the funding round include NEA, Elad Gil, Nat Friedman, Databricks, NVIDIA, the Bezos Missions Fund, Tobi Lutke, Bessemer Venture Partners, Naval Ravikant, Balaji Srinivasan, Guillermo Rauch, Austen Allred, and Kindred Ventures.
Srinivas emphasized that Perplexity remains model agnostic, utilizing the most suitable AI model for their specific needs and those of their clientele, amidst the rush among businesses to develop AI models that cater to diverse requirements.
“We opt for the most suitable model for each task, devoid of any allegiance to a particular model.” Our aim is to craft a design that best fits our unique product, even if it may not excel in every scenario, Srinivas explained.
By adopting this model-agnostic approach, Perplexity can adapt and employ the most effective framework for each use case, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Srinivas pointed out, “This flexibility is advantageous as it liberates us from being tied down to any single provider.”
The rapid proliferation of relational AI tools in the wake of ChatGPT has led some to liken the scenario to a technological arms race, with concerns ranging from job displacement to existential threats posed by Artificial Intelligence.
The CEO of xAI, Elon Musk, predicted a culmination of the ongoing labor transformation in November due to the advent of artificial intelligence.
Musk stated, “For the first time, we will witness something more intelligent than the smartest human being.” While the timeline for this event is uncertain, a future where employment becomes redundant is envisaged. Individuals may choose to work for personal fulfillment, as AI becomes proficient in handling all tasks.
Despite apprehensions surrounding conceptual AI, Srinivas remains optimistic about the technology’s trajectory.
“I am optimistic. However, my perspective on relational AI differs significantly from that of most individuals,” he remarked. “In my view, conceptual AI should be viewed as a powerful tool rather than a replacement for human agency. That is the essence of Perplexity.”
He continued, “I envision Perplexity akin to a household toaster that seamlessly integrates into your routine without requiring a second thought.” Srinivas emphasized that AI should not emulate the AI character Samantha from the 2013 movie “Her.”
According to Srinivas, AI should not assume the role of a roommate or partner but should instead embody a non-judgmental, readily responsive entity that facilitates learning and reduces barriers to exploring new subjects.
Srinivas expressed contentment in Perplexity’s steadfast commitment to its core principles.
He stated, “Our perspective diverges from that notion. I find fulfillment in simply fulfilling the rather mundane task of being the most accurate answer website globally, consistently delivering precise information.”
